Development of a methodology for the sampling and treatment of food waste and food residues in Kara Tepe (Lesvos) refugee camp

Abstract

AbstractThis research focuses on the management of food waste in small communities such as the one at the Reception and Identification Center (RIC) of Kara Tepe in Lesvos (Greece), using the method of home composting. To understand production patterns and possible variations of the characteristics of food residues, a sampling methodology was designed for obtaining representative samples of the whole population of the center. Two composting trials were carried out using household composters with a tailored active aeration system. The first trial contained food residues and olive leaves as a bulking agent (Κ1), and the second one contained food residues, olive leaves and two-phase olive pomace (K2) to investigate co-composting with local agricultural byproducts. Results indicate that the compost produced in the first trial (K1) was stable but phytotoxic and unsuitable for use as a soil amendment. The compost produced in the second trial (K2) was also stable and non-phytotoxic but potentially harmful for very sensitive plants if used as a soil amendment because of high pH values. In addition, an analysis of the operational cost of the proposed treatment process was performed, involving the estimation of electricity and water consumption. The findings indicate that 304 home composters can cover the requirements of a population of this size (approximately 1300 people), at a cost of a mere 3.36 €/day. Given the unique challenges faced by island communities in contrast to urban areas, including differences in strategy development, waste management practices, infrastructure, cultural considerations and innovation potential, the findings serve as a foundational guide for similar island communities in Mediterranean areas (for policy and decision makers, stakeholders, academia, etc.) to develop tailored strategies within the framework of the circular economy that particularly focus on composting for reducing food waste and utilizing byproducts. Therefore, it is feasible to exploit the proposed methodology in similar-sized communities—villages or even a block of flats—for the on-site treatment and utilization of food residues since it can provide a good-quality compost at a reasonable cost.